Independence Day Holds a Special Place in Seniors’ Hearts

Celebrating the birthday of our country is a special day for most seniors.  After all much of our older generation experienced the hardships and sacrifices that came from spending months away from loved ones while serving in various branches of our military.  In some cases, they made the ultimate sacrifice with the death of a parent, spouse, son, or daughter during combat.  Seniors have fought or sent loved ones to defend our American’s values and freedom and feel an ownership and pride in our country, and thanks for all it has given them.  Also many seniors who migrated earlier to America have a special affection for their adopted country and feel grateful to have been so warmly welcomed. 

Independence Day is a national holiday and our 4^th of July celebration is the only holiday that is unique to our country.  This year marks our 243rd Independence Day from British rule after our founding fathers finally approved and signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  As celebrations became more common, Congress declared it to be a national unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870 as part of a bill officially recognizing several holidays including Christmas.  In 1938 Congress passed a bill to make the 4^th of July a paid holiday for federal workers. 

The holiday was first observed on 1777 with a thirteen-gun salute in Rhode Island in honor of the thirteen colonies.  In Philadelphia an official dinner was held for the Continental Congress that included speeches, music, prayers, parades, 13-gun salutes, and, yes, fireworks.  The following year, it was reported that General Washington celebrated the day with a double ration of rum for the soldiers and an artillery salute. 

The first recorded public event celebrating Independence Day was held in Salem, North Carolina in 1783 with a challenging music program called The Psalm of Joy.  The music was compiled by Johann Friedrich Peter and held at the Salem Moravian Church.  It was the church’s way to rejoice in the war’s ending and to celebrate that throughout it all their relationship with God brought the realization of "a life lived in Christ is a Psalm of Joy.”  Interesting enough you can get copies of The Psalm of Joy music today.  The Moravian Church even held an event of the original program a few years ago.

Today most of us celebrate the 4^th with barbeques, picnics, and fireworks and use it as a reason to get outside and enjoy the summer weather.  If your senior loved one is in assisted living and has reduced mobility, take the picnic to them.  Many senior living communities have beautifully landscaped outside areas perfect for an intimate family party.  Or check with the community to see if they have special activities planned.  If they do, join the fun.  

Despite the sacrifices made by seniors during times of war and the depression, most are very patriotic and love participating in the activities and celebrations that take place during the 4^th of July.  As a time to gather with friends and loved ones to honor this great country; Independence Day also represents something many seniors cherish and want to hold on to – their own independence! 

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  Please schedule a tour to see firsthand the finest senior living in Des Moines.

Source: wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(United_States)